Cheapest Solar Lantern Aims to Displace Kerosene Lamps

D.Light has dubbed their newest solar lantern "The Kerosene Killer." That's because it is the cheapest, relatively high quality solar lantern on the market. D.Light has been aiming to wipe kerosene lamps from the face of the planet for awhile now, and they might have just come out with something that could do the trick. If the specs are on target, there's no reason why this lantern can't replace kerosene lamps on a wide scale. The Kiran - the lantern's proper name - needs 8 hours of sunlight for a full charge (or 4 hours plugged in to AC with a standard Nokia mobile phone adapter). A full charge will provide 8 hours of light on a low setting, which is good for walking outside or socializing, or 4 hours of light on the high setting, which is intended for working, studying and other activities that need bright light. The company also states that the lantern is at least four times brighter than a kerosene lantern, so users aren't giving up lighting quality for off-grid charging capabilities.

Now for that low price point. The Kiran is priced at $10. That is really, really cheap. But apparently it is made to be sturdy and durable, which would be our next concern since cheap stuff usually breaks easily. If it is to replace kerosene, it needs to be long-lasting as well as bright and easily rechargeable.

"D.light continues to be at the forefront of providing innovative and affordable technologysolutions for off-grid families around the world," said D.light CEO Sam Goldman. "Webelieve the exceptional quality of the Kiran lantern, delivered at a low and affordable price, will make it a serious competitor to kerosene and other fuel-based lighting in every rural market."

The cheap price, the high quality light, the durability of the lanterns, and the length of time the battery lasts are all key features for the product to be able to replace kerosene. If any one of them are off, then it won't be the "kerosene killer" that the company hopes it'll be. We're hoping that the lantern is what they claim, since replacing kerosene with solar power in a significant way would be a boon for everyone.